BA Spanish Studies at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

The interdisciplinary major in Spanish studies is designed to offer students advanced linguistic proficiency in Spanish as well as a broad understanding of the historical and cultural developments of the Spanish-speaking world. The Spanish studies major at UC Santa Cruz combines the strengths of language and applied linguistics with those of literary and cultural studies.

Faculty: Humanities Division | Department: Languages and Applied Linguistics | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Required courses listed in the catalogue include Second-Year Spanish, Spanish for Heritage Speakers, First-Year Spanish, Introduction to Linguistics, Latin America: Colonial Period, Latin America: National Period.

Career pathways

These pathways within the major prepare students for a range of career possibilities that involve working with the Spanish-speaking public in a variety of professions (e.g., law, business, public service).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Catalogue preparation guidance for the major (admission to the university is separate): To declare the Spanish Studies B.A., students must either: 1) complete SPAN 4 or SPHS 4 at UC Santa Cruz with a grade of C or better; 2) place into level 5 or higher via placement exam; or 3) demonstrate proficiency at this level. Transfer students: Please also consult the Transfer Information and Policy section.

Domestic applicants: USD 14,202 a year (2026-27). UC undergraduate Tuition for California residents first enrolled in 2026-27 (Tuition Stability Plan cohort rate); one rate for all undergraduate majors. Excludes Student Services Fee, campus fees, UC SHIP health insurance and records fee. Non-residents ad Source

Fall quarter entry (classes for fall 2026 began September 24, 2026); winter quarter entry (winter 2027 instruction begins January 4, 2027).

UC Application for fall 2027 opens October 1, 2026 and the filing deadline is November 30, 2026; the application is available online from August 1, 2026. Fall 2027 first-year decisions appear on the Admissions Portal late February to mid-March 2027; transfer decisions April 1-30, 2027. Transfer Academic Update due January 31, 2027; UCSC TAG filing period September 1-30, 2026.

UC Santa Cruz does not use ACT/SAT scores in its comprehensive review and selection process. Applications are made through the UC Application. Minimum GPA is 3.00 for California residents and 3.40 for non-residents and international applicants.

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